10 Best Tumi Backpack Alternatives (That Are Just as Good)
From recycled fabrics to leather detailing to convertible two-in-one options, Tumi makes some pretty darn good-looking travel backpacks … but you don’t get all that luxury for nothing! To travel in style without breaking the bank, check out these alternatives to Tumi backpacks.
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10 best backpacks like Tumi: our top picks for 2024
1. Best overall Tumi alternative: Lo & Sons
A good backpack is a staple. You can use it as a suitcase for a quick weekend getaway or let it play second fiddle to your carry-on bag for a longer trip. To mimic the famous Tumi style without having to splash out on a luxury backpack, we love this alternative from Lo & Sons. With a 13” laptop sleeve, a trolley sleeve, and pockets galore, the Rowledge is a sleek do-it-all backpack that will keep you feeling chic and organized all around town.
Price: starting at $325
2. Best affordable Tumi alternative: July
Not a big fan of backpacks? This one will convert you. The Carry All Backpack from July is a crowd-pleaser, whether you're a proud over-packer or a die-hard minimalist. Made out of water-resistant twill nylon with leather handles and trims and a padded back for extra comfort, this affordable alternative to a Tumi backpack will make you love your new hands-free travel life. Internal dividers keep everything organized; a trolley sleeve simplifies life at the airport; and the QuickPassTM hidden pocket helps you guard your travel docs on the go—all at a price that won't cut into your vacation budget.
Price: starting at $175
3. Best Tumi alternative that’s convertible: TravelPro
If you're a fashionista who loves to travel, then you've surely heard of the uber-coveted Tumi Liv Backpack/Tote. (And if you're anything like us, then you surely did a double-take at the price tag!) Get your hands on a sexy convertible backpack that won't cost more than a flight to Paris with the Travelpro® x Travel + Leisure® Women's Convertible Tote. Whether you want a backpack, a crossbody, or a shoulder carry-all, this convertible Tumi alternative goes above and beyond, giving you three looks in one so you're always styling and ready to go no matter where you travel.
Price: starting at $275
4. Best sustainable Tumi alternative: Away
Looking for another way to reduce your carbon footprint when you travel? Next time you pack up and hit the road, consider what your bag is made of. Unlike most brands on the market, the F.A.R. Backpack 26L from Away is made from responsibly sourced, recycled materials (that also happen to be water and abrasion-resistant!). Tricked out with front-to-back compartments, two exterior travel water bottle pockets, and your choice of classic black or three different sporty colors, this backpack is the go-to pick if you're looking for a recycled Tumi alternative.
Price: starting at $130
5. Best customizable Tumi alternative: Roam
Sure, a Tumi bag is one sleek travel companion—but it's also expected. Instead of copying the influencers, why not stand out from the crowd? To put your own flair on your travel backpack, turn to The Metropolitan Backpack from Roam. With this customizable Tumi alternative, you get to hand-pick the color options for the front panel, back, bottom, side panel, straps, and handles. Go sleek and monochrome for a classic look or mix and match to get creative and design a carry-on backpack that's truly one of a kind.
Price: starting at $295
6. Best waterproof Tumi alternative: Troubadour
When you're on a travel adventure, there's no telling what Mother Nature will throw at you. Make sure you’re ready for anything by traveling with a waterproof backpack, like this one from Troubadour. Made out of lightweight recycled polyester fabric with vegan leather trim, the Ember Backpack is designed to keep your gear dry so you never have to worry about getting caught in the rain. Best of all, this waterproof Tumi alternative even comes with a five-year warranty to protect you against manufacturing faults, making this backpack one travel accessory you can rely on again and again.
Price: starting at $195
7. Best anti-theft Tumi alternative: Arden Cove
Backpacks are always a popular pick for travelers because they let you dash through the airport, stroll through the city, or head out to the club completely hands-free. But they can also make you more susceptible to pickpockets. For extra peace of mind whether you’re riding the bus or sightseeing downtown, try the Carmel Convertible Backpack and Crossbody from Arden Cove. With two cut-resistant adjustable straps, an RFID-blocking built-in wallet, and locking zippers, this anti-theft backpack puts up the defenses to would-be thieves—without ever sacrificing style.
Price: starting at $210
8. Best colorful Tumi alternative: Calpak
If you want to infuse some vibrancy into your travel accessories by incorporating a colorful backpack, Calpak offers the ideal solution. The Luka Laptop Backpack from Calpak boasts a spacious and well-organized interior with dedicated compartments for laptops and other essentials, making it highly functional for both work and travel. Additionally, its contemporary design and a variety of attractive color options make it a fashionable choice for those seeking a stylish yet practical backpack. Lastly, Calpak's commitment to durability and customer satisfaction further enhances the appeal of the Luka Laptop Backpack as a worthy alternative to pricier Tumi options.
Price: starting at $108
9. Best leather Tumi alternative: Cuyana
Nothing feels more timeless and sophisticated than a good leather travel backpack. This pick from Cuyana is the best dupe if you’re looking for an alternative to the expensive leather backpacks from Tumi. Made out of rich, pebbled leather the Leather Backpack from Cuyana is understated, timeless, and built to last. You can easily access your phone and other necessities with the help of two spacious patch pockets and a secure magnetic closure, and the built-in laptop sleeve and slit pockets with a golden clasp closure offers an additional layer of protection and security.
Price: starting at $478
10. Best rugged Tumi alternative: WANDRD
Sometimes, style is just not on the packing list—or at least, it’s not a priority. If you’re looking for a backpack that’s robust, sturdy, and ready for anything, then you need the All-New PRVKE 21L Photography Travel Backpack from WANDRD. Made out of waterproof tarpaulin and Robic 1680D ballistic nylon with weather-resistant zippers, this backpack is the ultimate rugged alternative to a classic Tumi. Whether you’re a hiker, a photographer, or just an all-around adventurer, you’ll love the fleece-lined phone pocket, water bottle pocket, secure passport pocket, and other organizational goodies you’ll find inside this do-it-all Tumi alternative.
Price: starting at $219
Tumi alternatives - common FAQs
What brands compete with Tumi?
Tumi is a well-known luxury brand—but it’s got some hot competitors right on its heels! You can also find top-tier, high-end backpacks from Troubadour, Travelpro, and Lo & Sons.
Is Tumi considered luxury?
Tumi is one of the most luxe lines of luggage on the market. And it's not just hype—they've got more than 125 patents under their belt to show off their technical innovations.
Why is Tumi so expensive?
Tumi luggage doesn't come cheap. Pretty much all Tumi suitcases, backpacks, and bags are more expensive than your average luggage because they're made of high-quality, premium materials.
